Flu Cases Climb Across Northern Nevada

Tom Darby

RENO, Nev. — Health officials say flu activity is increasing across Northern Nevada, with a newer strain of Influenza A contributing to a rapid rise in cases during the holiday season.

According to Northern Nevada Public Health, the dominant strain currently detected through testing is Influenza A (H3), specifically a newer version known as the H3N2 subclade K. Experts say the strain is highly contagious and spreading quickly as people gather indoors and travel for the holidays.

While the strain is slightly different from the one targeted by this year’s flu vaccine, health officials say it does not appear to cause more severe illness than a typical flu infection. However, its transmissibility is leading to more people getting sick in a shorter period of time.

Northern Nevada Public Health reports 45 flu-related hospitalizations during the most recent reporting week, including 74 total hospitalizations recorded so far this flu season. Nearly 7.9 percent of outpatient visits are flu-like illnesses, indicating widespread community transmission.

Other respiratory viruses are also circulating. The latest respiratory virus snapshot shows COVID-19 accounting for four hospitalizations in the most recent week, with four deaths reported this season. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity remains elevated, with 33 new weekly cases, and a rate of 6.3 cases per 100,000 people.

Health officials note that flu season typically runs through late spring and are urging residents, especially older adults, young children, and those with underlying health conditions, to take precautions. Recommendations include staying home when sick, practicing good hand hygiene, and seeking medical care if symptoms worsen.

Northern Nevada Public Health says tracking these trends helps guide public health response efforts and provides residents with a clearer picture of which illnesses are circulating during the peak respiratory virus season.